God before people

In the book of 2 Chronicles, chapter 20, Jehoshaphat found himself in the midst of several armies declaring war against him.  The numbers of his enemies were vast and it terrified him.

Immediately, Jehoshaphat begged the Lord for guidance.  To up the ante, he ordered everyone in Judah be begin fasting and seeking the Lord for His help.

He then stood in front of the Lord's Temple and prayed.  This prayer, from verse 6 through 12, is worth reading in its entirety.  First, he acknowledges God and His Divine Nature.  Next, he acknowledges God's actions toward His people before they arrives in Israel along with the promises He made.  After this he pleads for His help against the mighty armies, stating they are powerless without Him.

The Spirit of the Lord spoke through one of his people.  The Lord told him not to be afraid, not to be discouraged.  He ordered them to stand next to the valley the following morning and watch the Lord's victory.

They did as they were told.

Soon, their enemies started fighting among themselves until they were all dead.

In the face of what appeared to be sudden defeat, Jehoshaphat sought out the Lord before others.  In other words, God before people.

When you are faced with adversity, whom to do seek first?  Let it be the Lord.

For the past six months, my wife has been battling one medical complication after another.  First and foremost, I pray to God.  I pray that He will guide the doctor's and nurse's hands, head, and heart for healing.

If this type of trust is new to you, start today.  Put your complete trust in God before anyone else.  You'll be amazed at what He can do.